It's been a busy week mainly because I squeezed an extra night shift in in preparation for paying for Christmas! I have managed to keep on top of Council work too, with 6 meetings since I last wrote plus Full Council. Typically the one Council I can't make ends at 8.30, next time when I am there we will all be there until 10pm!
Carers - big respect
Last Saturday I was out with Anne Snelgrove the MP and a team of people and I heard an incredible story when a woman told me of her life, caring for her parents. Wow, what a story, what a women. 
It wasnt that they were anything other than normal elderly parents who found life harder and harder without help but it was that she sacrificed her own career, social life etc to be there for them, her story has stayed with me all week. I know there are many many out there doing just the same, so this is for carers everywhere who care for parents, children, neighbours (we had a lady over 90 admitted to my ward this week who's neighbour had been caring for her). Huge, huge respect and admiration. If I could wish for one thing for carers it would be that they got looked after too, whether that is through respite, day centres, holiday clubs (children) or just having a long relaxing soak in the bath with the door locked and phone off without fear of being called out...quickly! If you or anyone you know is caring, please encourage them to take time for themselves too.
Youth Led Meeting
One meeting this week was taken by the youth forum. They challenged us by looking at transport and leisure costs, whether we listen to them and report back, the need for youth facilities and how they are seen in the media. The youngsters that led the meeting were brilliant, confident, clear on their points and brief when they made them; some councillors could learn from them! It was a very valuable meeting and I will be keeping an eye on some of the points made to see how we progress and make changes.
Arts Centre
I'm also on a task group which is looking at the Swindon Arts Centre, so any comments at all you have on that please let me know. Ever been? What did you think? If not do you know where it is? What would get you there? What have you heard about it? etc
